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Layered Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Layered Mexican Tortilla Casserole
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A comforting and flavorful Layered Mexican Tortilla Casserole featuring tender tortillas, seasoned meat or chicken, hearty beans, melted cheese, and vibrant salsa. Quick to prepare and versatile, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Tortillas

  • 8–10 flour or corn tortillas (soft and pliable)

Protein & Beans

  • 1 lb ground beef or chicken
  • 1 cup black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese & Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups salsa or enchilada sauce

Spices

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Sour cream or guacamole
  • Diced jalapeños or green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or chicken, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in rinsed and drained beans, then let the mixture simmer briefly to meld flavors.
  2. Assemble the Layers: Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of salsa or enchilada sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of tortillas over the sauce, then add a portion of the meat and bean filling. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the filling. Repeat the layers — tortillas, filling, cheese — until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and allow layers to meld. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite garnishes to enhance flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Use warm tortillas to prevent cracking and help them absorb moisture.
  • Drain and rinse beans thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole.
  • Distribute filling and cheese evenly for balanced flavor in every slice.
  • Allow the casserole to rest 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and cleaner servings.
  • Add fresh toppings like chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes for visual appeal and fresh taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican casserole, tortilla casserole, layered casserole, ground beef casserole, chicken casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, southwestern flavors, layered tortillas, comfort food

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/layered-mexican-tortilla-casserole/